What’s Happening in Handbags: Lina Rennell

Handbags need to be stylish, versatile, and able to hold a bunch of stuff. It’s a bonus if they’re eco-friendly too. Angelina Rennell, founder and designer of Lina Rennell, would agree.

“The line is in its third season. It’s print based, eco-driven, and organically evolved out of a love of print, nature, and making stuff,” the Los Gatos, California native says. The newest addition: a collection of handbags from a collaborative effort with fellow designer Ashley Watson. The partnership started when Rennell found some great fabric; she wanted to use it for a bag and contacted Watson to see if she’d be interested in using it.

“Ashley’s a bag expert and she’s an incredible designer with a big following,” says Rennell. The bags created in the collaboration utilize recycled leather and hand printed organic cotton canvas; Watson designed and made each style while Rennell chose the fabrics. Each bag was ethically made in Northern California and embodies fashion, femininity, and being green.

Though the bags’ price range is between $300 and $500, Rennell feels the price not only reflects the quality of the bag but also makes a statement. “These bags rock!” she says. “Seriously though, I don't think there are too many bags out there that are this eco and this stylish.”

The collection can be purchased online at www.beklina.com. Rennell’s favorite bag: the Ikat duffel ($440), for its versatility and durability. Already declared an “it-bag” for the season, the duffel uses a two way double zipper top and a detachable/adjustable second strap, letting the bag function for everyday use.

Up next for the line? Rennell is not quite sure, but knows that new prints are definitely on the horizon for an upcoming collection. “These bags will look great a decade later,” Rennell remarks, “I'm very proud of them.”